What The Study Did
Participants of this study reduced their caloric intake and drank one cup of low-fat milk with added micronutrients three times daily for sixteen weeks. The low-fat milk was enriched with micronutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, D, and E as well as calcium, magnesium and iron. Those who drank milk with the added micronutrients had greater results than those who drank unfortified milk in the study.
Study Results
It appears that it is not milk alone that aids in weight loss but the combination of milk with micronutrients that creates positive results. Many people are vitamin and mineral deficient and the addition of these micronutrients may have provided the amount necessary for the body to perform at optimal levels, thus allowing for weight loss. Several of these supplemented vitamins are involved in fat metabolism such as calcium, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.
Benefits of These Findings
One of the great benefits of this diet is the increase in bone density. Many dieters lose bone minerals and density content because of their restricted diets. This can lead to osteoporosis, especially in women. Those who drank milk with micronutrients had a significant increase in bone density compared to those who drank unfortified milk. Keep in mind that some individuals have lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy and should avoid milk entirely, but can supplement with calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, B, C, D, and E.
At Human Health Specialists, we provide nutrition counseling and can help you set up a healthy, individualized diet plan that will allow you attain your weight loss, fitness, and health goals. Come meet with our nutrition experts to integrate this into other healthy meal plans to fit your lifestyle.
References:
Rosado J. L., Garcia O. P., Ronquillo D. Intake of Milk with Added Micronutrients increases the effectiveness of an energy-restricted diet to reduce body weight: a randomized controlled clinical trial in Mexican women. J Am Diet Assoc. 2011; 111:1507-1516.